Assessment and Intervention

Psychological assessment may take a number of forms and can include insights and understandings obtained through consultations that may include information gathered through observation; testing or contextual data such as attainment levels provided by schools and parent’s perceptions of their child’s development and needs.  A critical part of any psychological assessment is an analysis of the context in which the child is operating.

In accordance with good practice guidelines originally developed by the British Psychological Society, assessments undertaken by Stillwaters psychologists will, by definition, incorporate a holistic and interactionist perspective in order to better help resolve the issues that are facing them.

Currently there is a statutory requirement for the provision of Psychological Advice as part of the Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP) process.

Stillwaters Psychology also offer an expert witness service for complex cases that may result in tribunal proceedings.

A wide spectrum of psychological assessments can be conducted. These will examine factors pertaining to emotional and social functioning, language impairments, learning problems and mental health factors.

Based on the assessment findings, detailed reports will be produced that will contain detailed intervention programmes, and where appropriate provide advice on bespoke training for staff teams working with the individual(s).

When requested, assessment reports can be prepared for Education Health and Care Plans and Special Educational Needs Tribunals.

The types of assessments are outlined below for young people and adults:

• Who have diagnoses on the Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) but who have additional complexities, such challenging behaviours and mental health factors.
• With, or requiring a diagnosis of, Dyslexia and specific learning difficulties.
• Complex emotional and behavioural needs, some of whom will need investigating for attachment and trauma factors. Alternatively, they may be exhibiting episodes of self harm or self-injurious behaviours.
• With dual diagnosis, for example, visual impairment or Downs Syndrome and Autism.